Crashing waves, a warm, steady breeze, the smell of coconut sunscreen, endless sunshine, and a perfect bikini. All the ingredients for an amazing day at the beach…well, almost. Don’t forget to accessorize your look before heading out to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Spring/summer 2014 promises to be a hot one in the fashion accessory arena; find out here what beach accessories need to be on your shopping list.

Cute Cover-ups

It’s a fashion no-no to make your way to the beach wearing your swimsuit, but wrapped only in a towel. Instead, wear a trendy cover-up over your bikini. The choices this year are plentiful: jumpers, rompers, maxi skirts, retro shorts, and coveralls. Rue 21 has plenty of these darling styles.

Follow this link to see one of my favorite examples, the Love Me Daisy Jumper, available for $18.00. Its an easy on, easy off version, but with plenty of sass.

Skin Saving Hats

Save your skin from unnecessary sun damage by wearing a wide brimmed hat. Floppy hats work well, plus they are one of today’s hottest fashion accessories for the beach. Choose styles with a loose, open weave so that your scalp can breathe. Check out the Bora Bora Floppy Sun Hat. Reminds me of Sophia Vergara!

Picture Perfect Sun Glasses

No trip to the beach would be complete without a statement pair of sunglasses. Aviator, cat eye, round, and retro frames continue to be popular. The main thing to remember: purchase a pair that offers UV protection – lenses that will block 99 – 100 % of UVA and UVB rays.

It’s important to note that just because sunglasses have dark lenses, doesn’t mean that they will offer protection. Skip glasses that don’t advertise this important feature.

Forever 21, a favorite of teens and twenty-somethings, has one must have style of sunglasses for this spring: Fresh Heart. Click here to see these lovable, heart shaped cuties.

Colorful Beach Towel

Claim your spot on the beach with a super sweet beach towel. Don’t settle for last year’s faded favorite; find one that screams “this year!” Chevron patterns in a juicy pastel color, or rolling wave patterns in bright blue are fabulous choices, as well as towels that feature fun sayings, such as Life’s a beach.

The oversized beach towel, “Sun, Love, and VS” would provide enough space for you…and maybe even a friend! Follow this link to view this trendy accessory from Victoria’s Secret.

Spacious Beach Bag

Keep all of your belongings safe in a spacious beach bag. Choose one that’s water proof and that offers a zippered pocket inside to stow away small items.

$45 buys an awesome bag by Volcom. It features both inside and outside pockets, and it’s roomy enough for all your beach needs. Braided rope handles complete its fresh look. See this gem here.